The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) has urged the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and security agencies to declare a state of emergency in response to the rising incidence of “one‑chance” robberies in Abuja. The appeal follows the murders of nurse Chinemerem Chuwumeziem and senior legal practitioner Princess Chigbo Mediatrix, both killed by one‑chance operators in the Federal Capital Territory. During a press conference, FIDA condemned the killings and expressed deep concern over the escalating insecurity in the FCT.
Chairperson Mrs. Chioma Onyenucheya‑Uko noted that these incidents are part of a disturbing pattern of one‑chance attacks that have persisted despite public outcry and media coverage. The association is urging the FCT minister to establish a dedicated task force to dismantle the criminal networks and to prioritize the installation of functional CCTV surveillance along major transport corridors and identified hotspots. FIDA also calls for the regulation and sanitisation of commercial transportation, including clear identification, registration, and monitoring of both public and informal transport operators.
Furthermore, FIDA is pressing security agencies—the police, Department of State Service, and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps—to conduct intelligence‑driven patrols, stop‑and‑search operations, and covert surveillance along known one‑chance routes. The association stresses that perpetrators and their collaborators must be promptly arrested, investigated, and prosecuted, and that the judiciary should ensure speedy disposition of related cases to deliver justice and deter future crimes.
Onyenucheya‑Uko emphasized that safeguarding citizens is a constitutional obligation. She affirmed that FIDA will continue to engage, advocate, and demand accountability until concrete steps are taken to end the menace. The killings of a senior legal practitioner and a nurse have sent a chilling message to residents—especially women and vulnerable commuters—who already navigate public spaces under constant threat. FIDA’s call for action aims to address the growing insecurity in the FCT and ensure that citizens can move safely without fear of abduction, assault, or murder, holding authorities accountable for providing a safe environment for all.
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